PhD in Education

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Could you send me some information on the program?

  • Please see our Ph.D. in Education Program website.
  • We strongly encourage students to come to our monthly informational sessions.
    • Our director will address the admissions process and discuss the program in detail. After the presentation, there will be an opportunity for students to ask individual questions.

Q: What do you need to apply?

  • 3 years work experience in an educational setting
  • Official transcript from graduate and undergraduate institutions
  • 3 letters of recommendation
  • Graduate Record Exam (GRE) scores that are no more than 5 years old
  • Goal statement of 750 – 1000 words indicating why you wish to pursue the Ph. D. in Education degree, how it will enhance your professional goals, your competencies, and any research interests you may have
  • Complete application, application fee, and current resume.

Q: What are the admission deadlines?

  • Feb 1st for fall admission
  • September 1st for spring admission
  • All admissions materials must be in the admissions office by the admission deadline to ensure proper processing. If you are missing parts of the required application materials, your application is incomplete and will not be considered.

Q: What GRE scores are expected?

  • The Ph. D. Admissions Committee likes to see a combined verbal and quantitative score of at least 1,000. However, the GRE scores are just a part of the complete package, a lower score does not mean you will be refused admission.
  • Beginning February, 2000 the GRE Writing Assessment Test will be required too. 4.5 – 5.5 would be considered a competitive score on the GRE Writing.

Q: May I make an appointment to see someone to discuss the program?

  • Have you attended an information session? We would advise you to come to an information session. The director conducts these especially for individuals who are interested in the program and he is very thorough. You may ask individual questions after the presentation.

Q: How do I get to GMU?

  • Access the GMU home page and click on maps/directions on the left side.

For additional information or comments, please contact Janet Holmes at 703.993.2011 or jholmes@gmu.edu.